The Bridger Ridge Run Trail...OF DOOM!


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North America » United States » Montana » Bozeman
July 8th 2006
Published: July 12th 2006
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Two Mathematicians and a 10 year old Dog Go For A Very Long Walk... ...or at least that's how it started. It sounded like an innocent and splendid plan. A plan to hike the entire length of the Bridger Ridge Run hosted yearly in August by the local Bozeman Running Club, The Wind Drinkers. This is a 19.65 (the short way) or 20.55 (the long way) race across the knifes edge of the Bridger Mountain Ra... Read Full Entry



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Looking at the beginningLooking at the beginning
Looking at the beginning

A picture of Sacajawea behind Ross Peak.
Metal on the MountainMetal on the Mountain
Metal on the Mountain

The Top of the Chair Lift on top of Bridger Bowl
Ominous CliffsOminous Cliffs
Ominous Cliffs

The Vertebrate of the Backbone of the Bridger Mountains.
Over Half WayOver Half Way
Over Half Way

Looking at Sacajawea past Bridger Bowl
I see dead thingsI see dead things
I see dead things

in the rock that is.
Looking BackLooking Back
Looking Back

thirteen miles from Sacajawea and seven from the M parking lot.
Fuck Over MountainFuck Over Mountain
Fuck Over Mountain

Somewhere there is a plastic tupperware container and our pride near this mountain peak.
Glistening BozemanGlistening Bozeman
Glistening Bozeman

From the top of the M



20th May 2007

Well Done! One Clarification
Wonderful narrative. It reminded me of my trip in October of 2006, when it was decidedly cooler that your hike in July. It was actually my 3rd attempt to hike the ridge. The tradeoff was that I nearly got blown off the ridge a few times in 40-MPH gusts. You were wise to get good directions in advance because there are 4 particular places where it is almost "natural" to make the wrong trail decision. So, for those attempting this trail for the first time, speak to someone who has hiked it before because otherwise, it will take you as many as 3 attempts (as it did me) to hike the ridge because you too can get hopelessly off course. Also, I believe (I could be worng, it's happened before) that the mountain above Ross Pass (and above Bridger Bowl) is not actually Bridger Peak. I believe the FOM Peak you refer to is actually called Bridger Peak. And, the decision you made to go left (on the most obvious path) is one of the 4 places I mentioned previously. It is actually a game trail that peters out. Another word of caution about bringing a dog. If your dog enjoys chasing wildlife, he/she may try to run after the mountain goats on the ridge. This could be a big mistake for your dog, since mountain goats will lead your dog over the gnarliest terrain you'd ever imagine. So, unless Fido is under voice control, leave him at home. Carrying enough water for yourself and for Fido (not water on the route at all) is almost impossible. Anyway, great writing, and a great adventure. Congrats!!!! Terry C
23rd May 2007

Good Points
Terry you are absolutely right about the peak names I got them mixed up and I do distinctly remember the game trail and it is extremely easy to go down the wrong path! Thanks for reading and maybe I'll see you out on the trail! -Luke
8th June 2007

This Year
Luke. Thanks - and happy hiking. So, the hiking ridge was my big accomplishment last year. Since I think it's important to announce your hiking goals early in the season (that way, your friends will nag you until you accomplish them) I'll announce them officially here. 1) Extend the usual hike to Hyalite Lake and go to the summit of Hyalite Peak. 2) Hike Alex Lowe Peak. Haven't been up there since it's been officially named. 3) The Elephant - see if there's an actual trail that lead up there from the Blackmore Saddle. 4) Ross Peak Summit - I understand finding the correct route is important. There, I've said it!! Terry C.
11th June 2008

Great story - can I put in on the BRR Website?
I just came across your tale of doom. Loved it - and with your permission would love to have it on our Bridger Ridge Run website. Can we do it? I know this is a year or 2 after the writing, so I hope you read this! (I'm the race director)
8th July 2010
Gauss, Dog with out Fear

Gaussss!!!
What a great name for a dog, if I do say so myself. AWESOME!!

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